2009 Nissan Xterra vs. 1999 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1999 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1999 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 1356 kg more than 1999 Nissan Sentra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan Xterra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Nissan Xterra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Sentra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Xterra | 1999 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Xterra | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2316 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
